Action on Issues
Action on Issues include information on a variety of issues of importance to professional engineers. Each issue includes background information, NSPE's position, and references to more information.
The debate over the role of government in regulating occupations and professions has recently come to the forefront. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, occupational licensing directly affects nearly 30% of U.S. workers. Barbers, cosmetologists, florists, interior designers, naturopaths, manicurists … and the list goes on. Read more ...
As the weather becomes more severe, PEs are at the forefront of designing infrastructure that can adapt to keep the public safe and secure. Planning for the unknown is no easy assignment, but professional engineers are acting now to reduce risks and plan for quick recovery when disaster strikes. Read more ...
Qualifications-based selection is a procedure whereby service providers are retained on the basis of qualifications, rather than price factors. Under the QBS method, the procuring agency reviews the qualifications submitted by interested individuals and firms, ranks respondents, and then negotiates with the most qualified respondent for a mutually agreeable contract. Read more ...
Since its inception, NSPE has advocated for the licensing of engineers who are in responsible charge of the practice of engineering as defined in the NCEES Model Law and Rules. It has also strongly advocated for the elimination of licensing exemptions, which exist – to varying degrees – in 53 U.S. states and territories. Read more ...
The regulation of engineering practice takes place at the state level. All states and territories have laws and regulations covering engineering practice and they have licensing boards that ensure the laws and regulations are followed. Read more ...
The licensing of engineers began in Wyoming in 1907 to protect the public from untrained individuals practicing engineering and surveying. Today, all states and territories license professional engineers to protect the public health, safety, and welfare. Read more ...
Autonomous vehicles have captured the imagination—and the anxiety—of the public. How can PEs ensure that the same values of safety and reliability that went into building the nation’s physical transportation infrastructure are applied to this emerging technology? Read more ...